When we think of AMG vehicles, we think of sedans, coupes, and large SUVs. But, the people of Affalterbach, headquarters to AMG, know how to make a difference even in their tiniest vehicles. The AMG 45 series has been available in India for some time, but with the new-generation A-Class and GLA introduction, we now have the sportier and more liveable AMG 35 series. But, the AMG 45 now outperforms its predecessor as the unrivalled performance. That is precisely how this new Mercedes-AMG A 45 S claims to be.
The NATRAX Automotive Proving Ground, which spans 3,000 acres, is home to the High-Speed Track (HST), measuring 11.3 kilometres in length. It is Asia’s and the world’s fifth-longest high-speed test track of its sort. In reality, the NATRAX infrastructure is one of the greatest globally, and it is an honour to see it up and operating. Over 14 different test tracks and several testing laboratories claim to provide the professional levels for our upcoming automobiles.
With 2 km long straights and slight braking on the lengthy parabolic bends, vehicles on the HST may reach a peak speed of 375 kmph. So, just the spot where you’d want to push the world’s most incredible compact hatchback to its maximum.
In India, the AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ perched alongside the A-Class family with a robust, hefty punch in every manner. But, don’t judge it by its size but by its power. The 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is the world’s most powerful series-production engine, producing 415 horsepower at 6750 rpm and a monstrous 500 Nm of peak torque between 5,000 and 5,250 rpm. The power is sent to the four-wheel-drive via an 8-speed DCT AMG tuned transmission.
The AMG A 45 S seemed totally at the place on the racetrack. It is an automobile of gigantic proportions. It entered the arc at well over 250 kmph and was quickly up to 260 km. Compared to the AMG A 45, the S version has 33 horsepower and the AMG Driver’s Package, which restricts the highest speed to 270 kmph. As a result, India receives the more performance-oriented vehicle in every way. It gets a firmer suspension, stronger brakes, and a new steering wheel.
The digital speedometer quickly reads 270 kmph on the arc, and there was still plenty of room to drive the machine further. As a result, it reached a high speed of 279 kmph. There was still plenty of leeway for the engine to continue pushing ahead before reaching the redline at 7,000 rpm. 0-100 km/h takes 3.9 secs. The 8-speed AMG tuned DCT gearbox works flawlessly in performance mode, and gear shifts are spectacular. There is minimal latency; however, you will feel a tiny jolt while shifting gears at triple-digit speeds. It’s completely smooth in the Comfort mode, which you’d use off track.
The AMG A 45 S always provides you with a grounded sense, and a part of it comes from the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive mechanism, which offers excellent grip throughout. When comparing the AMG A 45 S to the A 35 AMG, the next most economical A-Class in India, there is a vast difference in results. That’s a lot more comfortable and smoother. But, on the other hand, this one is all about speed and raw power. So one should not think the AMG A 45 S isn’t an actual sports vehicle. If you still don’t believe it, the delightful booms and bangs from the big four-cylinder will continue to remind you.
